In this article, we will take a look at the 35 biggest Football Clubs in the World. If you want to skip our comprehensive analysis of the football industry, you can go directly to the 7 biggest Football Clubs in the World.
The global soccer market is going through an impressive revival, as clubs have managed to generate record-breaking revenues in the 2022/23 season, in the race to be amongst the Biggest Football Clubs in the World. As per the latest Money League report, the top 20 biggest football clubs collectively raked in an astounding €10.5 billion, marking a 14% increase from the previous year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
One of the main contributors to this surge in revenue is the unprecedented matchday incomes, which totalled a whopping €1.9 billion. Interestingly, commercial revenue has emerged as the leading income stream for the Money League clubs, surpassing other sources of revenue. In the 2022/23 season, these clubs managed to generate a record-breaking €4.4 billion in commercial revenue, representing an impressive 16% growth from the previous year. This marks a significant milestone as it’s the first time since the 2015/16 season, excluding the pandemic-affected 2019/20 season, that commercial revenue has taken the lead, at the back of improved retail sales, revenue from non-matchday events, and the recovery of sponsorship income impacted by the pandemic.
Moreover, broadcast revenue also received a boost due to club income derived from CVC Capital Partners’ investment into a commercial subsidiary of Ligue de Football Professional. This investment provided a cumulative uplift of €120 million to Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille, two prominent names in the European club football.
In contrast, the United States soccer market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors. The country’s young and diverse demographic, along with its digitally savvy population, is contributing to the sport’s popularity. The initial rise of this growth dates back to the 1994 FIFA World Cup in USA, and the establishment of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1996. 18 years down the road, Atlanta United and LA Galaxy are two clubs which are not only recognized as two of the most esteemed teams in MLS, but also have a worldwide brand name, thanks to the various football stars, such as Lionel Messi, David Beckham, Neymar, and many others, who joined MLS. These teams excel in terms of revenue, with Atlanta United generating 68 million U.S. dollars and LA Galaxy producing 64 million U.S. dollars.
As a result of this growing popularity in the U.S, the MLS and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) have achieved impressive attendance figures, with MLS attracting over 10 million fans and the NWSL surpassing 1 million attendees for the first time in 2022. The NWSL, in particular, has experienced significant growth, with its Championship Game becoming the most-watched game in league history. In 2022, the league witnessed an impressive 87% increase in national sponsorship revenue, and viewership on Paramount+ rose by nearly 30%.
Furthermore, investments in soccer-related ventures are on the rise as well. MLS, which has tripled its number of teams since 2004, has seen average club valuations rise by 85% to $579 million since 2019. Moreover, high-profile individuals and celebrities are increasingly becoming owners or investors in NWSL teams, contributing to the overall growth and valuation of women’s soccer. At the grassroots level, soccer’s popularity is also evident with over 810,000 high school-level players during the 2021-22 school year.
The future outlook looks promising, with MLS securing a new 10-year, $2.5 billion global rights deal with Apple. Moreover, the recent announcement by the National Women’s Soccer League regarding a four-year media distribution contract with CBS Sports, ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, and Scripps Sports indicates great prospects for soccer in the USA; starting in 2024, the contract includes agreements for 118 national windows on these major media channels, which is expected to result in record-breaking distribution and revenue for the league.
In the realm of football, where the convergence of passion and skill takes place on the field, sponsorships play a significant role in driving the global appeal of the game. These sponsorships provide vital financial support to clubs, players, and the sport as a whole, with team jerseys proudly displaying iconic emblems and dazzling stadium displays capturing the attention of fans worldwide. Adidas has solidified its position as the top kit supplier, securing an impressive 15 deals in the prestigious “Big Five” leagues for the upcoming season. Nike follows closely behind with 14 clubs, and Puma with 12, making for a fiercely competitive landscape in the sponsorship arena.
So before we delve into the 35 Biggest Football Clubs in The World, let’s take a look at some of the top sponsorship brands in the Football industry, namely Nike (NYSE:NKE), Puma (XETRA:PUM.DE), and Adidas (OTCQX:ADDYY).
Nike, Inc. (NYSE:NKE)
Established in 1964, Nike (NYSE:NKE) is a global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and accessories. Nike recently announced its plans to reinvest savings from cost-cutting initiatives to fuel future growth and drive long-term profitability. Despite a softer second-half revenue outlook, the company remains focused on strong gross margin execution and disciplined cost management. Nike (NYSE:NKE) also reported a net income of $1.58 billion for the three-month period ending 30 November 2023, with sales rising approximately 1% to $13.39 billion, and intends to continue the performance.
Puma SE (XETRA:PUM.DE)
Puma (XETRA:PUM.DE), another sportswear giant, has reported an operating profit of US$249 million for the fiscal third quarter of 2023. Puma (XETRA:PUM.DE) remains on track to achieve its full-year outlook, despite a slight decrease compared to last year’s profit of US$273 million. The gross margin increased by 30 basis points to 47.1 per cent, exceeding analyst expectations.
The EMEA region experienced the highest sales growth at 9.9 per cent during the quarter, followed by a 4.6 per cent increase in the Asia Pacific region and a smaller 2.5 per cent rise in the Americas.
Adidas AG (OTCQX:ADDYY)
Adidas’ partnership with Kanye West, which resulted in the popular Yeezy shoes, concluded in 2022 due to remarks made by the rapper, leading to a separation between the two entities. This separation left Adidas (OTCQX:ADDYY) with a significant inventory of Yeezy shoes, posing a challenge.
However, the company is optimistic about the future and projects a turnaround in 2024. Adidas (OTCQX:ADDYY) expects its operating profit to nearly double to around €500 million ($542.3 million), following the discontinuation of its Yeezy business, and the end of its collaboration with Kanye West.
Photo by Mario Klassen on Unsplash
Methodology
To provide the most precise analysis of the 35 Biggest Football Clubs in The World, we have compiled rankings based on each club’s revenue. These rankings are derived from the 27th edition of the Deloitte Football Money League, which accounts for the revenue generated by each soccer club in the 2022-2023 season.
By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.
35 Biggest Football Clubs in the World
35. Inter Miami
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €112.1m
Inter Miami has recently gained recognition as a top revenue-earning club, becoming the first US team to make headlines for their high earnings, and also the first club in our list of the Biggest Football Clubs in the World. The addition of Lionel Messi in the middle of the 2023 season greatly contributed to their record-breaking revenue, which was more than double their earnings in 2022. Their goal is to reach a revenue of $200 million next season, which would position them among the top 25 highest-grossing clubs in the world.
34. SS Lazio
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €148.66m
Lazio has solidified itself as a successful revenue-earning club in 2023, thanks to their strong performance in the previous season where they finished 2nd in the Serie A. With President Claudio Lotito at the helm, they secured a spot in the prestigious Champions League by finishing in 2nd place. Building on this success, Lazio made strategic moves in the summer transfer window, selling star midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and acquiring necessary reinforcements. In a departure from their usual approach, they even acquired players from well-known clubs like Juventus, showcasing their increasing ambition and competitiveness.
33. Sevilla F.C
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €186.1m
Sevilla’s inclusion in this list of 35 Biggest Football Clubs in the World can be attributed to their consistent success in the Europa League, ability to compete with bigger budget clubs, and a successful player trading model. Despite changes in management and ownership disputes, their strong performances in European competitions have attracted sponsors and brought in significant revenue. The return of sporting director Monchi has also brought stability and expertise in building the team.
32. Flamengo
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €192m
Flamengo’s remarkable growth in revenue has landed them 32nd spot on this list of Biggest Football Clubs in the World. In 2022-2023, they earned a record revenue of €192 million. Their victories in the Copa do Brasil and Copa Libertadores were major factors in this revenue growth. Additionally, the club aims to increase their broadcast revenue by creating an independent Brazilian league. With a positive financial performance during the 2022/23 season, including a profit of €24.7 million and reduced debts, Flamengo has solidified its position among the top clubs in terms of revenue generation.
31. Atalanta F.C.
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €195.4m
Atalanta’s inclusion here can be attributed to their effective scouting and youth academy system. They have a track record of nurturing young talents and selling them for significant profits. An example of this is the recent transfer of Rasmus Hojlund before the current season, who was bought for €20m and transferred to Manchester United for €75m plus bonuses after just one year.
30. Everton
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €198m
Everton was docked ten points for breaching the Premier League’s “profitability and sustainability” rules in November 2023, pushing them into the relegation zone in the league. Everton exceeded the permitted footballing losses and struggled to achieve desired returns when selling players. However, their constant appearance in the Premier League over the years, allowing them to build upon their fan base, is the driving force behind their inclusion here.
29. Olympique Lyonnais
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €199.1m
Lyonnais has secured its place in the list of the biggest football clubs in the world through a series of achievements and sustained success. Winning the Trophée des Champions for the third consecutive edition further solidified their dominance. As the reigning French champion and an eight-time UEFA Women’s Champions League winner, Lyon has consistently performed at the highest level, contributing to the club’s revenue generation. Their consistent presence in the top 10 of Ligue 1 has also played a significant role in sustaining their brand image and fan base.
28. Crystal Palace
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €206.5m
Crystal Palace has earned its place in this list due to its consistent presence in the Premier League since its promotion in 2013. The club’s ability to maintain its top-flight status has contributed to revenue generation over the years. However, there have been concerns surrounding the team’s transfer activity, with only a few notable signings made at the time of writing.
27. Leeds United
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €207.8m
Leeds United’s inclusion in this list can be attributed to their recent successes and consistent performances. Finishing as the top side in the Championship in the 2019 season highlighted their competitiveness. Furthermore, since their entry into the Premier League in the 2020-2021 season, Leeds United has managed to retain their place in the league, and their impressive victories, such as the statement win against Ipswich Town, have further solidified their position and helped generate revenue for the club.
26. Fulham
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €209.8m
The reason for Fulham’s placement among the Biggest Football Clubs in the World can be credited to their recent successes and consistent showings. While they have a track record of moving between the Premier League and Championship, they impressively broke this trend by securing a 10th place finish in the 22/23 Premiere League season. This was unexpected and they were seen as one of the most surprising teams.
25. Sevilla
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €214.3m
Sevilla has successfully earned a spot on the list due to their recent triumph in winning the UEFA Europa League title in 2023, and despite not claiming the title in the decade leading up to their victory, their consistent appearances in the competition showcased their competitiveness and strengthened their brand image. Furthermore, Sevilla’s regular presence in the top 5 of the La Liga standings has kept their loyal and passionate fan base intact that further boosts the club’s revenue generation capabilities.
24. AS Roma
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €214.9m
AS Roma has successfully secured a position on this list through their impressive performance in the Europa League, where they made it to the final last season. While they may have fallen short of claiming the title, reaching the final itself was a significant improvement compared to their previous campaigns in the tournament. Additionally, AS Roma’s consistent success in the Serie A has played a vital role in boosting the club’s financial standing.
23. Brighton & Hove Albion
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €231.3m
Brighton & Hove Albion has made its way onto the list of the Biggest Football Clubs in The World due to their impressive performance in the Premier League and their successful run in the UEFA Europa League. The Seagulls, currently in their seventh consecutive season in the Premier League, have attracted attention with their strong showing in European competition, leading to discussions about their potential to contend for the trophy.
22. SL Benfica
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €233.4m
There is no doubt regarding the success of Benfica, which is the top Portuguese club, claiming the Liga Portugal title for the 38th time in the 2022/2023 season. Moreover, its success even in the UEFA Champions League – making to the Quarter Finals stage – bolstered its revenue inflows and helped it bag a place in the list of the football clubs with highest revenues.
21. Aston Villa
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €250.5m
Aston Villa’s impressive performance in the Premier League, particularly their unbeaten home run spanning 17 matches and collecting a remarkable 85 points in a calendar year, has contributed significantly to their inclusion on the list of Biggest Football Clubs in the World . Furthermore, their achievement of 32 wins across all competitions in the past 12 months has set a new club record, showcasing their rise in stature. Finishing in 5th place in the Premier League further solidifies Aston Villa’s position among the top clubs generating substantial revenue.
20. Olympique de Marseille
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €258.4m
Marseille primarily makes to the list of the biggest football clubs in the world due to their third-place finish in Ligue 1. Although they used to be regulars in the Champions League, they have recently settled for the second tier of European competition. The club saw a significant increase in broadcast revenue during the 2022/23 season, going from £57 million to £138 million, making up more than 50% of the total revenue brought in by the second French team on the list.
19. SSC Napoli
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €267.7m
Napoli breaks into after winning their first Serie A title in over 30 years. With standout performances from Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the team had high expectations for their Champions League campaign. Although they were knocked out by AC Milan in the quarter-finals, the club still benefitted financially. Their revenue increased by £100 million post 2022/23 season, which is remarkable considering their previous mid-table and fourth place finishes in the past many years.
18. West Ham United
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €275.1m
West Ham United achieved the dream of competing in continental competition and even won the Europa Conference League. This success not only brought in prize money but also secured entry into the Europa League. Financially, this was vital to the club in 2023, although their revenue decreased due to their 14th-place finish in the Premiere League. Furthermore, the lucrative TV deals of the English top-flight have elevated many Premier League clubs, including West Ham and Newcastle, who have both experienced success in recent years.
17. Newcastle United
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €287.8m
Newcastle United experienced an exciting transformation under Eddie Howe since the club was taken over in 2021. They went from relegation candidates to achieving Champions League qualification. Being drawn in a tough group with PSG, Borussia Dortmund, and AC Milan, Newcastle couldn’t advance to the knockout rounds, resulting in missing out on further prize money, yet making it to this list of Biggest Football Clubs in the World.
16. Eintracht Frankfurt
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €293.5m
Eintracht Frankfurt won the Europa League in 2022 and secured entry into the Champions League for the following season. While they finished seventh in the Premiere League, their success in European competition contributed significantly to their 16th place on the list of the biggest soccer clubs in the world.
15. Atlético de Madrid
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €364.1m
Despite often playing third fiddle to Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga, Atletico has challenged their dominance during Diego Simeone’s tenure. Even though Atletico Madrid experienced a loss in revenue over 12 months, their regular participation in Europe’s top competition provides a steady income for the Spanish club which is the major reason why they still make this list.
14. FC Internazionale Milano
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €378.9m
Inter Milan had a financially successful season, reaching the final of the Champions League, although they were defeated by Manchester City. While they may feel disappointed with their third-place finish in Serie A, their rivalry with AC Milan could have influenced the position of the two Milan clubs on this list.
13. AC Milan
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €385.3m
AC Milan’s historic success and strong brand continue to attract sponsorships, despite not being as formidable as they were in the past. Their semi-final appearance in the Champions League and second place finish in the domestic league contributed to their rise and inclusion into this list.
12. Borussia Dortmund (XETRA:BVB.DE)
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €420m
Borussia Dortmund (XETRA:BVB.DE) fell just short of winning their first Bundesliga title in over a decade, finishing as runners-up to Bayern Munich. Despite Bayern’s dominance in German football, Borussia Dortmund (XETRA:BVB.DE) has consistently been the second-best team in the league over the last 10 years. Their passionate fan base, clad in black and yellow, contributes to their continued success.
11. Juventus FC
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €432.4m
Juventus, an Italian Serie A club, faced financial challenges in recent years and was even expelled from European competition due to compliance issues. However, they remain a major revenue generator in their domestic league. Although their revenue increase was relatively small this year, Juventus retains its 11th place ranking on the list, with revenues rising substantially to €432.4 million in 2022/23 season, becoming the 11th Biggest Football Club in the World.
10. Arsenal
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €532.6m
Arsenal achieved a significant milestone by reaching the Champions League group stage this year, for the first time since 2016. Despite coming close to toppling Manchester City from the Premier League summit in the 2022/23 season, Arsenal’s young team lacked the final push to secure the club’s first league title in nearly two decades. Nevertheless, the positive atmosphere returned to the Emirates Stadium, accompanied by a remarkable 23% increase in revenue in 2023, thanks to their return to the top European competition.
9. Chelsea
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €589.4m
Chelsea has invested substantial amounts of money since 2022. Despite not experiencing immediate on-field success, with four different managers overseeing the team, Chelsea remains one of the wealthiest clubs globally. The recruitment of numerous young players highlights the club’s long-term project at Stamford Bridge. Additionally, the lucrative broadcasting rights for Premier League matches continue to bolster the club’s already significant financial reserves as they strive to achieve success on the pitch.
8. Tottenham Hotspur
Revenue in 2022-23 Season: €631.5m
Criticism has often been directed towards the job done by Tottenham’s chairman, Daniel Levy, with a perceived emphasis on matters unrelated to on-pitch success. Although Spurs have not lifted any silverware since 2008, their revenue remains impressive. Tottenham’s state-of-the-art stadium, which hosts various events beyond football, including music concerts and NFL matches, contributes to their growing income, allowing it to cut through and make it to this list of Biggest Football Clubs in the World.
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Disclosure: None. 35 Biggest Football Clubs in The World is originally published on Insider Monkey.
